If spotting a whale on your windjammer cruise is on your bucket list, check out the Schooner American Eagle’s trips this season to the Canadian border or Stellwagen Bank.

credit: MB Rolfe

American Eagle guests hike across Little River Island to view the lighthouse that marks the entrance to Cutler Harbor, an anchorage that is often included on their Down East cruise.

This year, American Eagle, a schooner that was built to sail longer distances and is well-suited to strong breezes, will offer an offshore adventure to Gloucester and Stellwagen Bank, the marine sanctuary with the greatest population of whales off New England. The schooner will also travel to the Canadian border in July in hopes of catching sight of more whales during migration. Captain Foss says, “Our longer adventures fill up first, because people want to spend as much time as possible seeing the unique wildlife—puffins, eagles, osprey and the occasional whale.” What better way to enjoy wildlife in their natural habitat than aboard a quiet historic vessel under sail!

Courtesy Windjammer Angelique

Instructor Brenda Cyr leads a yoga class on board Angelique at dusk. A guest practices yoga poses on the SUP while Brenda holds the board.

The Angelique has a number of specialty cruises on offer including yoga and breathwork. Captain Dennis says, “Last year, this cruise sold out and it was just an amazing trip. We’re happy to bring it back this year.” They’re also offering a beer tasting cruise where guests will sample some of the incredible selections from Maine’s renowned micro-breweries. This cruise also includes a shipboard demonstration of small batch all-grain brewing. The galley chef will prepare foods specifically to pair with the different beer offerings. Guests will learn about the brewing process, what to look for when buying beer and how to pair beers with different dishes.

credit: Fred LeBlanc

Captain Linda Lee in the galley where all of the Heritage’s meals are made from scratch.

credit: Fred LeBlanc

A Heritage guest heads off on an early-morning row.

The Heritage is excited to have a full roster of events during the month of June including the Schooner Gam on June 13; a special 3-day Father’s Day cruise June 16-19; and a Solstice cruise with full moon on June 19. Says Captain Linda, “All the cruises are special, and every cruise is about wellness. We offer guests an opportunity to regain their equilibrium, stargaze, enjoy a lobster bake on an island beach and hear some great story-telling. We also make all our meals from scratch.” Joining the Heritage in June means long days, great sunsets, wonderful sunrises and a great chance to get out in rowboats in the morning.

For more information about the nine Maine Windjammer Association vessels, click here.